In this TDN series we ask a group of experts for their predictions for the 2020 flat season in Europe. Today we have Barry Lynch in the irons.
TDN: Who do you think will be the leading first-season sire this year?
BL: There is a good selection of first-season sires with runners to choose from. I liked several. I thought Territories (Ire), in particular, had some nice stock at the sales. Mehmas (Ire) and Adaay (Ire) had sharp early types who look like they will get up and go. After weighing up pedigree, race record and the yearling sales I think Territories will give a good account of himself.
TDN: Have you bought any yearlings by Territories? Does he typically stamp his stock?
BL: I bought a Territories colt [lot 219 at Goffs UK Premier Yearling Sale] from Cooneen Stud for Michael Dods. He was a well made colt with a lovely temperament and Michael Dods likes him.
TDN: Hope for the 2020 flat season?
BL: Happy clients and good horses who outperform expectations and price.
TDN: We have been running a series in the TDN recently on value sires. What European stallion(s) do you think represents the best value?
BL: Starspangledbanner (Aus) had another solid year with several black-type 2-year-olds and a Group 1 filly in Millisle (Ire). He stands at €22,500 and compared to other top proven sprinting stallions I feel he is well priced.
Another horse with an interesting profile is Kuroshio (Aus) at Starfield Stud in Co. Meath who stands for €6,000. He made an impression with his first crop from a small book and it was backed up by Kurious (GB) going on and winning a Group 3 as a 3-year old in 2019.
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